The engineering job market can be a competitive place, and you’ll be going up against many qualified candidates each time you apply for a position. If you’ve got your eye on a job, chances are a lot of other people have their eye on it, as well. Therefore, you must strategize effective ways to catch the eye of the hiring manager and position yourself as the top candidate for the job.

It Starts with the Search

It is a fact that you will not be the top candidate for every job, especially if you are applying to every open engineering position you can find. If you want to make the case that you are truly the most qualified candidate, you must target your search to positions that truly align with your skills and your career goals.

When you do find an aligned position, customize each resume and cover letter to the position you are applying for and directly address the requirements and the specifications for each job. This will help you stand out as someone who pays attention to detail and who cares enough about the open position to spend extra time customizing your application rather than sending form documents.

Make Your Case

When customizing your resume, take care to showcase the most important skills and experience listed in the job description. Hiring managers don’t spend a lot of time looking at resumes until they’ve narrowed the field, so you must connect the dots for them.

Make sure the language you use in your resume and cover letter mirrors the language used in the job description. Use the same keywords and phrases they did and showcase your most relevant skills and experience at the top of your resume. It is also very important to quantify your achievements whenever possible both on your resume and in your interviews. Cite specific examples that highlight the skills and knowledge that the employer is looking for in a candidate.

Prepare Your References

Make sure you have created a diverse list of references that includes supervisors, supervisees, peers, customers, etc. Reach out to every person on the list to confirm their willingness to act as a reference and let them know a potential employer could be calling. Tell each person about the position and go over some key points outlining the reasons why you think you are the top candidate for the job.

Work with an Engineering Recruiter

If you want to increase the chances you can successfully position yourself at the top candidate, work with an expert engineering recruiter. Niche recruiters understand the engineering market and take the time to match you with positions that align with your skills and goals. They can help you tailor your resume for each position they recommend you for, and they talk to the hiring manager ahead of time about your strengths, positioning you as the right person for the job.

If you are a talented engineering professional looking for new opportunities, PEAK Technical Staffing USA can help. Partner with our recruiting professionals to take the next step in your career.

About PEAK

PEAK Technical Staffing can help connect you with employers and opportunities that leverage your engineering expertise and advance your career. We partner with employers nationwide who are looking for people with your skills and experience. Since 1968 PEAK has helped engineering professionals find jobs that offer flexibility, challenges and rewards.

If you are looking for employers and opportunities that will take your engineering career to the next level and help you to achieve your goals, contact a PEAK recruitment expert today.